Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Purchase Flooring Directly From You?

In order to ensure the highest quality and value for our customers, we do not sell directly to the public. Instead, we work with retailers and contractors to distribute our products. For further details, please refer to our Internet Sales Policy. Contact us to find the nearest retailer to you!

Are Your Products Backed By Warranty?

Absolutely! In fact, our warranties are above and beyond the industry standard. You can learn more about our Warranties, which are specific to each line, in the Warranties section.

Is It Normal For My Floor Boards To Differ In Shade?

The Garrison Collection hardwood floors are hand crafted from genuine, natural hardwood lumber. As such it is normal for the boards to vary in shade, texture, and grain. In fact, it is typically highly desirable as it adds character and authenticity to your hardwood floors.

Can I Install A Solid Wood Floor Directly Onto A Concrete Slab?

We do not typically recommended installing solid wood flooring directly onto a concrete slab. This can introduce problems such as cupping or buckling. Talk with your authorized Garrison dealer or contractor to determine the best solution for your space.

Can I Install A Hardwood Floor Over An Existing Vinyl Floor?

The answer to this question depends on the condition and type of vinyl. If the vinyl flooring is thin, does not have a thick cushion, and is well secured to the subfloor, you may be able to float Garrison wood flooring over it. In some situations, you may alternatively be able to nail/staple a wood floor over it, as long as the wood subfloor is sound. Talk with your authorized Garrison dealer or contractor to determine the best solution for your space.

How Do I Remove Scratches From My Hardwood Floor?

This depends on the type of wood floor you have, how it is finished, and how deep the scratches are in the top layer. For minor scratches in you should be able to order touch-up products from the store/contractor from whom you purchased your flooring. For larger problems, some wood floors allow for complete replacement of the damaged boards. We recommend any repairs, sanding/recoating, or board replacement be completed by a professional flooring installer or refinisher.

Can An Engineered Hardwood Floor Be Refinished?

Yes. Garrison engineered planks have a 1/8” or thicker finish layer and can be sanded and refinished two or more times. The sanding and refinishing of an engineered wood floor is best done by an experienced hardwood flooring refinisher. If you have heat vents in your floor, you can remove a heat cover to get a side view of your wood floor. This will help you check to see how thick your finish layer is.

Can I Use Throw Rugs Or Mats On My Hardwood Floor?

Before using any throw rugs on your wood floor, you should know the type of finish you have on the floor. For best results follow these recommendations:

Choose a non-staining rug - With the presence of moisture, some dyes used in rugs may bleed through onto your floor and discolor the wood floor’s surface. These are usually identified as "colorfast" by the manufacturer.

Avoid rubber-backed mats and rugs - There are occasionally chemical reactions between a floors finish and the rubber that can create permanent stains.

Avoid rugs or mats with a rough backing material - These that may scratch the surface of the floor.

Clean dirt and debris from under the rug regularly - Even minute particles can eventually scratch the surface of the floor.

Move the rug occasionally - This helps to prevent possible shading of the wood underneath the rug from lack of light, use, etc.

How Do I Prevent My Hardwood Floor From Gapping?

Gapping in solid wood cannot be completed avoided. Wood expands and contracts with changes in humidity and temperature. Using a humidifier during the heating months may help reduce the amount of gapping in solid wood floors. To minimize gapping we recommend selecting one of our engineered flooring lines. Engineered wood floors are much more dimensionally stable than solid wood floors and will show little or no gaps between planks. Talk with your authorized Garrison dealer or contractor to determine the best solution for your specific environment.

How Do I Prevent Furniture From Scratching My Hardwood Floors?

We recommended felt pads for use under chair legs and other furniture. These pads come in various shapes and sizes and are available at most furniture and discount stores. Some just stick on the bottom of the legs and others need to be nailed on. Follow the directions provided with the pads, and never hit the pads directly with a hammer. Check and clean the pads often to prevent debris, dirt, and small particles from being trapped in the pad, which may cause scratches in the wood flooring’s finish.

How Do I Remove Glue Or Sap From My Hardwood Floor Without Damaging It?

We recommend the use of GooGone or AR2000 adhesive remover made by Trinity Hardwood. Both should be available at your local hardware or discount store. As with any chemical, always test first by applying a small amount in an out of the way area.